Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on an accelerated rate of mandibular distraction osteogenesis.

Background: Distraction osteogenesis has become a standard therapy for lengthening of the human craniofacial skeleton. Because the technique is used predominately in a paediatric population, limiting the treatment protocol is beneficial.

Methods: Twenty-four animals were divided into four groups with distraction rates of 1mm and 2mm/day with and without hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy.